How to Trim a Frangipani Tree

by Angela Ryczkowski

Prune a young frangipani to encourage a strong, healthy structure.

Frangipani (Plumeria rubra) is a tropical tree most often recognized for its attractive and fragrant flowers, which are used to make leis. Also known as Plumeria or temple tree, different species and cultivars offer a variety of flower colors and leaf characteristic. Frequently grown as a patio or container specimen, regular pruning while the tree is young is key to maintaining a strong, healthy plant. It is easiest to prune a frangipani in winter following leaf drop, but be aware that extensive pruning at this time will impact spring flowering.

1

Place the specimen in the shade or out of direct sunlight, if possible, and keep it protected there for a few days following trimming. If the specimen is not in a movable container, prune it when extreme weather or temperatures are not expected.

2

Cut about 3 inches off of the main stem or stems each winter for about the first three or four years to increase branching and showiness. When pruning, make clean, angled cuts as close to a junction with another branch as possible.

3

Remove or shorten stems that develop as subordinate leaders to encourage one major, obvious leader or trunk. Frangipani has a tendency to produce multiple leaders, so this is particularly important if one central trunk and a tree-like shape is desired over a shrubby form.

4

Remove crowded limbs from along the main stem. Create adequate spacing between branches that will develop into major limbs.

5

Trim off lower branches at the main trunk if pedestrian or vehicular clearance is a concern.

6

Pollard older frangipani trees, if desired. This method is suitable for established trees that have reached the ideal size and shape. Establish a framework of branches by annually cutting back branches to a certain point referred to as the pollard head. As a result of the pruning, numerous new shoots grow from the head.

7

Cut off damaged, diseased or infested branches as soon as they appear, removing problematic stems where they meet a main branch. The plumeria stem borer, or long-horned beetle, damages the interior of branches, causing the affected branches to shrivel and bend. The only practical treatment is the removal and destruction of all infected branches.

Things You Will Need

Work gloves

Safety glasses

Sharp, clean pruning shears or loppers

Tips

Avoid over-fertilizing the frangipani throughout the year. This will limit the amount of new, weak growth that requires pruning.

Warnings

Wear gloves and handle this plant carefully when pruning, as it exudes a milky sap capable of irritating skin and eyes.

Never remove more than 10 percent of a frangipani's branches when pruning to avoid seriously damaging the tree's vigor. Use pruning as a tool to shape young trees and remove problematic limbs on older specimens. Well-shaped older trees require minimal pruning.

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